The Kenyan government expects its trade with Israel to rise rapidly following plans by Kenya Airways to launch direct flights to Tel Aviv.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed said the East African nation was in the process of making it easy for foreign companies to invest in Kenya.
"We wish to extend a firm welcome to Israeli firms to take advantage of the more conducive business environment that we are creating," Mohamed said on Friday during a meeting with Israeli business and government delegation in Kenya.
Kenya Airways CEO Dr. Titus Naikuni said the strategic business move will be integral to helping the national airline fulfill its mission of bringing the world to Africa, and taking Africa to the rest of the world.
"The introduction of flights to Israel is anchored on the renewed economic interest in Africa, and will also open up the continent for tourists and trade, particularly in agriculture and technology," Naikuni said.
The delegation, which was in the country for two days, was led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Avigdor Liberman who described their mission as successful, having established strong ties that will be pursued for mutual gains between Kenya and Israel.